To meet the growing demands of the energy transition and the decarbonization of industrial sectors, RTE (Réseau de Transport d’Électricité), the operator of the French electricity transmission network, has announced a strategic order of 5,000 kilometers of high-voltage underground cables. This investment of nearly one billion euros, distributed among five European suppliers, aims to ensure the security of electricity supplies until 2028.
These cables will be manufactured by the groups Prysmian (Italy), Nexans (France), NKT (Denmark), Solidal (Portugal, a subsidiary of NKT), and Hellenic Cable (Greece), major players in the European energy market. This order, initiated through a tender, covers cables intended for high and ultra-high voltage lines, with voltage levels ranging from 90,000 to 400,000 volts. One-third of this production will be carried out in France, reinforcing national production capacity and thereby contributing to supply security.
A strategic investment for the energy transition
The primary objective of this order is to support the ongoing energy transition in French industrial regions. Key economic zones such as Dunkerque, Fos-sur-Mer, and Le Havre are seeing an increase in their electricity needs to replace fossil fuels, like gas and coal, with cleaner energy sources. The delivery and installation of these cables in France will therefore be essential for the electrification of these industrial areas.
The overall contract, valued at 668 million euros for cable production, also includes a 300 million euro allocation for installation and assembly. According to RTE, this large-scale operation should mobilize almost all cable production capacity in France until 2028, with around 1,700 kilometers of cables produced locally.
Increasing French production capacities
To support this effort, the companies involved, particularly the French suppliers, are adapting their facilities. For example, the Prysmian Group has announced the upcoming opening of a new production line at its plant in Seine-et-Marne. This initiative aims to meet the growing demand for cables, ensure stable production, and allow for timely delivery.
This order also represents an opportunity for RTE to secure long-term relationships with its suppliers. By providing manufacturers with increased visibility of its needs, RTE hopes to enable them to maintain and even increase their production capacities. The development of new infrastructure for cable production is thus facilitated, especially for national suppliers.
Perspectives for a more resilient network
RTE also revealed that it will publish, by the end of the year, a global investment plan covering fifteen years. This strategic plan aims to modernize the French network in anticipation of future energy needs, which include a more stable and environmentally-friendly electricity supply. This investment program should allow RTE to strengthen its management and distribution capacities to meet consumption peaks, especially in the transition to greener energy.
The role of underground cables in this project is essential to mitigate risks associated with weather events and reduce the visual impact of electrical infrastructure. By favoring a sustainable and secure approach, this cable order marks a significant step toward a more resilient electrical network capable of addressing future energy challenges.
